Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Nutritionists and Dietitians in Rockford, IL

Photo of Lauren Furgiuele, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Lauren Furgiuele
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Online Only
I’m Lauren, a holistic Registered Dietitian who supports women with PCOS in their 20s through early 40s achieve regular periods with less pain, bloating, and fatigue so they can regain control of their cycles, improve fertility outcomes, and protect their future health against PCOS-related risks. Unlike one-size-fits-all solutions like birth control, restrictive diets, or cookie-cutter group programs, my collaborative and personalized approach empowers clients to build trust in themselves while learning how to best nourish their bodies through tailored and realistic nutrition, lifestyle, and supplement strategies.
I’m Lauren, a holistic Registered Dietitian who supports women with PCOS in their 20s through early 40s achieve regular periods with less pain, bloating, and fatigue so they can regain control of their cycles, improve fertility outcomes, and protect their future health against PCOS-related risks. Unlike one-size-fits-all solutions like birth control, restrictive diets, or cookie-cutter group programs, my collaborative and personalized approach empowers clients to build trust in themselves while learning how to best nourish their bodies through tailored and realistic nutrition, lifestyle, and supplement strategies.
(828) 383-9686 View (828) 383-9686

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Mia Greco - Olive Branch Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, MPH, RD, LDN
Olive Branch Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, MPH, RD, LDN
Serves Area
We treat people suffering from a variety of eating disorders as well as general weight inclusive medical nutrition therapy for a variety of disease states (Diabetes, CKD, Diverticulosis, Hyperlipidemia, IBS, PCOS, Gastroparesis etc).
Our mission is to provide weight inclusive medical nutrition therapy, using the principles of Intuitive Eating in a HAES aligned practice. The intent of our counseling is to help people find peace with food freedom, develop a healthy relationship with food and their bodies, and focus on gentle nutrition to manage and prevent chronic disease states.
We treat people suffering from a variety of eating disorders as well as general weight inclusive medical nutrition therapy for a variety of disease states (Diabetes, CKD, Diverticulosis, Hyperlipidemia, IBS, PCOS, Gastroparesis etc).
Our mission is to provide weight inclusive medical nutrition therapy, using the principles of Intuitive Eating in a HAES aligned practice. The intent of our counseling is to help people find peace with food freedom, develop a healthy relationship with food and their bodies, and focus on gentle nutrition to manage and prevent chronic disease states.
(224) 218-5362 View (224) 218-5362
Photo of Julie Badowski, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
Julie Badowski
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
Online Only
Do you feel overwhelmed by a recent diagnosis? Have you been doing "all the right things" and still not seeing results? Do you feel lost when navigating all the conflicting nutrition advice out there and need help figuring what is right for you...and how to actually make a new eating plan work in your life? This is where I come in. With a listening ear, education on recognizing what your body is telling you and how food interacts with that, and support in making long term change.
Do you feel overwhelmed by a recent diagnosis? Have you been doing "all the right things" and still not seeing results? Do you feel lost when navigating all the conflicting nutrition advice out there and need help figuring what is right for you...and how to actually make a new eating plan work in your life? This is where I come in. With a listening ear, education on recognizing what your body is telling you and how food interacts with that, and support in making long term change.
(815) 567-8933 View (815) 567-8933

Online Dietitians and Nutritionists

Photo of Tina M Musselman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, LPC, RD, CLT, MA
Tina M Musselman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, LPC, RD, CLT, MA
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Does this sound familiar? You are busy, overstretched and tired of not recognizing yourself when you look in the mirror? Do you give so much to others, family, organizations and work that there is nothing left for yourself at the end of the day? Is your energy, vitality and health being chipped away little by little? Have challenges such as Whole 30, Hard 75 and intense diets failed you?
Does this sound familiar? You are busy, overstretched and tired of not recognizing yourself when you look in the mirror? Do you give so much to others, family, organizations and work that there is nothing left for yourself at the end of the day? Is your energy, vitality and health being chipped away little by little? Have challenges such as Whole 30, Hard 75 and intense diets failed you?
(815) 393-9509 View (815) 393-9509
Photo of Marla Brodsky - Luscious life nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, BCIM, IFNCP
Luscious life nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, BCIM, IFNCP
Online Only
I am Board Certified in Integrative and functional Medicine. That means that I work with clients to find the root causes of their symptoms in a holistic way. We are learning that maintaining our gut health is the root of treating many diseases including autoimmune, inflammatory, skin, obesity, cancer, allergies, and more. I work with clients to figure out why they are struggling with a condition and treat it using food as medicine, identifying food sensitivities, providing nutrients to maximize the body's functioning, and if needed, I do cooking sessions to teach how to make healthy food taste great.
I am Board Certified in Integrative and functional Medicine. That means that I work with clients to find the root causes of their symptoms in a holistic way. We are learning that maintaining our gut health is the root of treating many diseases including autoimmune, inflammatory, skin, obesity, cancer, allergies, and more. I work with clients to figure out why they are struggling with a condition and treat it using food as medicine, identifying food sensitivities, providing nutrients to maximize the body's functioning, and if needed, I do cooking sessions to teach how to make healthy food taste great.
(773) 840-8159 View (773) 840-8159
Photo of Emma Wood, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Emma Wood
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60608
Emma specializes in working with clients interested in PCOS, Hormonal Imbalances, Pre/Post Natal, Infertility, Bariatric Surgery, Weight Management, Anti-Inflammatory, Thyroid Conditions, and other areas. Emma is passionate about helping others achieve their individual nutrition and health goals. She practices “judgment free” care and understands the numerous barriers to health, while serving as a partner to her patients on their wellness journey. She utilizes evidenced based practices to produce sustainable results and help others create a positive relationship with nutrition
Emma specializes in working with clients interested in PCOS, Hormonal Imbalances, Pre/Post Natal, Infertility, Bariatric Surgery, Weight Management, Anti-Inflammatory, Thyroid Conditions, and other areas. Emma is passionate about helping others achieve their individual nutrition and health goals. She practices “judgment free” care and understands the numerous barriers to health, while serving as a partner to her patients on their wellness journey. She utilizes evidenced based practices to produce sustainable results and help others create a positive relationship with nutrition
(904) 454-8105 View (904) 454-8105
Photo of Kristin Woodbury, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Kristin Woodbury
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60653
Kristin specializes in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, PCOS, Digestive Conditions, IBS, Low FODMAP, Chron's, and Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, and Diabetes.
Specialties include working with adults with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, PCOS, Digestive Conditions, IBS, Low FODMAP, Crohn's, Diabetes, and Pre/Post Natal Nutrition. Other areas of expertise include but is not limited to general healthy eating, GERD, and Heart Conditions.
Kristin specializes in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, PCOS, Digestive Conditions, IBS, Low FODMAP, Chron's, and Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, and Diabetes.
Specialties include working with adults with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, PCOS, Digestive Conditions, IBS, Low FODMAP, Crohn's, Diabetes, and Pre/Post Natal Nutrition. Other areas of expertise include but is not limited to general healthy eating, GERD, and Heart Conditions.
(332) 249-8428 View (332) 249-8428
Photo of Danielle Hendrix, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CEDS
Danielle Hendrix
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CEDS
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60620
Specialties include Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Emotional Wellbeing, Wellness Counseling, Heart Healthy Nutrition, General Nutrition, IBS, Crohn's, Colitis, Vegan, Vegetarian diets.
Danielle is a Registered Dietitian who practices out of Health Loft. Danielle understands that making fulfilling, long-lasting, and healthful decisions requires patience and a solid client-provider relationship. Change can be challenging, and you need a supportive provider to help navigate the way as you create your own path. Danielle strongly believes that being healthy means not only taking care of our physical health, but also our mental health. Danielle understands that nutrition is not “one-size-fits-all”, and she will work to help you create a personalized plan of care to help you meet your goals.
Specialties include Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Emotional Wellbeing, Wellness Counseling, Heart Healthy Nutrition, General Nutrition, IBS, Crohn's, Colitis, Vegan, Vegetarian diets.
Danielle is a Registered Dietitian who practices out of Health Loft. Danielle understands that making fulfilling, long-lasting, and healthful decisions requires patience and a solid client-provider relationship. Change can be challenging, and you need a supportive provider to help navigate the way as you create your own path. Danielle strongly believes that being healthy means not only taking care of our physical health, but also our mental health. Danielle understands that nutrition is not “one-size-fits-all”, and she will work to help you create a personalized plan of care to help you meet your goals.
(346) 666-7394 View (346) 666-7394
Photo of Marcy Kirshenbaum, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN, CLT
Marcy Kirshenbaum
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN, CLT
1 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
As a clinical nutritionist, I offer individual nutritional counseling to help you make practical and sustainable changes specifically addressing your issues through a healthy lifestyle. You'll experience optimal health and wellness when your body functions are in balance. In our fast-paced, convenience focused lives, we are faced with many obstacles that take us off course-our lifestyle and the quality of our foods, for example. I specialize in gastrointestinal wellness and detoxification support. Gastrointestinal health plays a central role in all other body systems, while support of the body's detoxification mechanisms is critical in our world today.
As a clinical nutritionist, I offer individual nutritional counseling to help you make practical and sustainable changes specifically addressing your issues through a healthy lifestyle. You'll experience optimal health and wellness when your body functions are in balance. In our fast-paced, convenience focused lives, we are faced with many obstacles that take us off course-our lifestyle and the quality of our foods, for example. I specialize in gastrointestinal wellness and detoxification support. Gastrointestinal health plays a central role in all other body systems, while support of the body's detoxification mechanisms is critical in our world today.
(224) 231-6943 View (224) 231-6943
Photo of Jeff Beach, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Jeff Beach
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Online Only
My ideal clients are individuals wanting to improve their relationship with food, energy, and overall well-being while honoring cultural food traditions. They often feel stuck between diet rules, confusion, or guilt around eating, and want a more sustainable, intuitive approach. I support clients through a culturally inclusive, anti-diet framework that values their lived experience. Together, we focus on mindful and intuitive eating, bridging the gap between knowledge and action so healthy eating feels natural, flexible, and sustainable.
My ideal clients are individuals wanting to improve their relationship with food, energy, and overall well-being while honoring cultural food traditions. They often feel stuck between diet rules, confusion, or guilt around eating, and want a more sustainable, intuitive approach. I support clients through a culturally inclusive, anti-diet framework that values their lived experience. Together, we focus on mindful and intuitive eating, bridging the gap between knowledge and action so healthy eating feels natural, flexible, and sustainable.
(708) 336-4998 View (708) 336-4998
Photo of Haleigh Augspols, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Haleigh Augspols
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60610
Specialties include working with clients that have or had a history of Eating Disorders, Picky Eating, Pre-Diabetes, Heart Conditions, High Cholesterol, GERD, Crohn’s Disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome ( IBS), Ulcerative Colitis, Gout, High Blood Pressure, Thyroid Disorders, PCOS, Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, Underweight Nutrition, Weight Management, Food Allergy
Passionate about nourishing bodies with evidence-based nutrition, Haleigh is a registered dietitian committed to guiding you through the maze of healthy eating. Haleigh loves helping her clients make small changes to their lifestyle that makes a huge difference to their health. Haleigh is dedicated to assisting clients with a mind-body approach to a healthier lifestyle through education on intuitive eating, stress reduction and a whole foods approach. She is a “non-diet” dietitian and strongly supports making changes that work for each person as an individual.
Specialties include working with clients that have or had a history of Eating Disorders, Picky Eating, Pre-Diabetes, Heart Conditions, High Cholesterol, GERD, Crohn’s Disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome ( IBS), Ulcerative Colitis, Gout, High Blood Pressure, Thyroid Disorders, PCOS, Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, Underweight Nutrition, Weight Management, Food Allergy
Passionate about nourishing bodies with evidence-based nutrition, Haleigh is a registered dietitian committed to guiding you through the maze of healthy eating. Haleigh loves helping her clients make small changes to their lifestyle that makes a huge difference to their health. Haleigh is dedicated to assisting clients with a mind-body approach to a healthier lifestyle through education on intuitive eating, stress reduction and a whole foods approach. She is a “non-diet” dietitian and strongly supports making changes that work for each person as an individual.
(312) 779-1450 View (312) 779-1450
Photo of Julia Gibson, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Julia Gibson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60608
Julia is a dedicated Registered Dietitian with a commitment to helping individuals overcome eating disorders and cultivate a healthy relationship with food. Julia strives to bring a compassionate and non-judgmental demeanor to foster a safe space where individuals feel heard and understood, making her a ready and capable resource in the challenging but transformative process of overcoming nutrition challenges. Julia offers a wealth of knowledge that comes from years of working in the inpatient setting.
Julia is a dedicated Registered Dietitian with a commitment to helping individuals overcome eating disorders and cultivate a healthy relationship with food. Julia strives to bring a compassionate and non-judgmental demeanor to foster a safe space where individuals feel heard and understood, making her a ready and capable resource in the challenging but transformative process of overcoming nutrition challenges. Julia offers a wealth of knowledge that comes from years of working in the inpatient setting.
(312) 494-0401 View (312) 494-0401
Photo of Emily Ramos, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CNSC
Emily Ramos
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CNSC
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60643
She also focuses on gut disorders, including celiac disease, IBS, and IBD.
Emily’s ideal patients are individuals who are ready to make meaningful changes in their lives. She especially enjoys working with those experiencing GI disorders, as these conditions can be deeply debilitating and require strong motivation. Emily also loves working with pediatric patients, finding joy in helping children build healthy nutrition habits that can positively impact their lives long term.
She also focuses on gut disorders, including celiac disease, IBS, and IBD.
Emily’s ideal patients are individuals who are ready to make meaningful changes in their lives. She especially enjoys working with those experiencing GI disorders, as these conditions can be deeply debilitating and require strong motivation. Emily also loves working with pediatric patients, finding joy in helping children build healthy nutrition habits that can positively impact their lives long term.
(785) 665-2186 View (785) 665-2186
Photo of Ellen Muhammad, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, CDCES, CLT
Ellen Muhammad
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, CDCES, CLT
Online Only
Being healthy starts with proper nutrition because food impacts so much including: good health, weight loss, diabetes management and even healing from symptoms (migraines, IBS, fibromyalgia, joint pain and fatigue) caused by food sensitivities.
I am Registered Dietitian, who has completed several additional advanced certifications in diabetes (CDE) and food sensitivities (CLT) dietary treatments. Distinguished as a qualified expert, I am passionate about helping clients restore their health through personalized nutrition and lifestyle programs. Allow me to guide you toward YOUR path of wellness!
Being healthy starts with proper nutrition because food impacts so much including: good health, weight loss, diabetes management and even healing from symptoms (migraines, IBS, fibromyalgia, joint pain and fatigue) caused by food sensitivities.
I am Registered Dietitian, who has completed several additional advanced certifications in diabetes (CDE) and food sensitivities (CLT) dietary treatments. Distinguished as a qualified expert, I am passionate about helping clients restore their health through personalized nutrition and lifestyle programs. Allow me to guide you toward YOUR path of wellness!
(773) 245-1915 View (773) 245-1915
Photo of Christi Kargl, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDCES
Christi Kargl
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDCES
Online Only
Christi (she/her) is a registered dietitian, a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES), and a Lifestyle Coach for the Diabetes Prevention Program. She studied dietetics and dance at Michigan State University and completed a master’s degree in applied nutrition at Russell Sage College. She helps clients with a variety of health concerns and specializes in diabetes, metabolic disorders, mental health conditions, digestion issues and weight concerns. Christi is LGBTQ+ ally with years of experience providing inclusive care.
Christi (she/her) is a registered dietitian, a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES), and a Lifestyle Coach for the Diabetes Prevention Program. She studied dietetics and dance at Michigan State University and completed a master’s degree in applied nutrition at Russell Sage College. She helps clients with a variety of health concerns and specializes in diabetes, metabolic disorders, mental health conditions, digestion issues and weight concerns. Christi is LGBTQ+ ally with years of experience providing inclusive care.
(312) 584-2745 View (312) 584-2745
Photo of Daniela Jannette, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Daniela Jannette
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Online Only
I specialize in eating disorders/disordered eating, emotional eating, diabetes or pre-diabetes, general health, heart health, sports & performance nutrition, chronic kidney disease, IBS, gut health, thyroid disorders, weight stabilization, weight loss medications, tube feeding (EN), total parenteral nutrition (TPN), and cancer.
I understand that life’s challenges are complex and unique to each individual. Busy schedules, limited nutrition resources, and complicated relationships with food are just some of the many factors that contribute to failed diet and lifestyle changes. I’m here to help you establish a healthy relationship with food and guide you through the connection between mind, body, and spirit to accomplish your goals. I firmly believe that wellness is a dynamic process of change and growth, “a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease“.
I specialize in eating disorders/disordered eating, emotional eating, diabetes or pre-diabetes, general health, heart health, sports & performance nutrition, chronic kidney disease, IBS, gut health, thyroid disorders, weight stabilization, weight loss medications, tube feeding (EN), total parenteral nutrition (TPN), and cancer.
I understand that life’s challenges are complex and unique to each individual. Busy schedules, limited nutrition resources, and complicated relationships with food are just some of the many factors that contribute to failed diet and lifestyle changes. I’m here to help you establish a healthy relationship with food and guide you through the connection between mind, body, and spirit to accomplish your goals. I firmly believe that wellness is a dynamic process of change and growth, “a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease“.
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Photo of Ashley Walls, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, RDN, LDN
Ashley Walls
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, RDN, LDN
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Ashley Walls specializes in working with clients interested in general healthy eating, and conditions including Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Celiac, Crohn's, IBS, Intuitive Eating, Weight Management and more.
Specialties include working with clients that need assistance with Irritable Bowel Syndrome ( IBS), Low FODMAP diet, GERD, Eating Disorders, Pre-diabetes, Diabetes, Heart conditions, High Blood Pressure, Cholesterol, Celiac, Crohn’s, Ulcerative Colitis, Intuitive Eating, Underweight Nutrition, Weight Management, Malnutrition, Sports Nutrition
Ashley Walls specializes in working with clients interested in general healthy eating, and conditions including Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Celiac, Crohn's, IBS, Intuitive Eating, Weight Management and more.
Specialties include working with clients that need assistance with Irritable Bowel Syndrome ( IBS), Low FODMAP diet, GERD, Eating Disorders, Pre-diabetes, Diabetes, Heart conditions, High Blood Pressure, Cholesterol, Celiac, Crohn’s, Ulcerative Colitis, Intuitive Eating, Underweight Nutrition, Weight Management, Malnutrition, Sports Nutrition
(312) 262-7112 View (312) 262-7112
Photo of Mary Ann Kelly - Dietitian of the Desert, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CIC, ISAK
Dietitian of the Desert
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CIC, ISAK
1 Endorsed
Wilmette, IL 60091
Every person is unique and my goal is to support your personal health & performance goals with a customized plan. Sessions can be scheduled in person or remotely. I believe in Testing, Not Guessing! Micro-nutrient Levels, Microbiome Test or our Food & Chemical Sensitivity Testing can be completed when local or when on the move. Onsite services also include Body Composition & Metabolic Testing, workshops & seminars and camp support! NEW! Respiratory Training will help you achieve your personal best at altitude or in the gym!. Personalized Probiotics and Supplement Recommendations to match your body type and goals!
Every person is unique and my goal is to support your personal health & performance goals with a customized plan. Sessions can be scheduled in person or remotely. I believe in Testing, Not Guessing! Micro-nutrient Levels, Microbiome Test or our Food & Chemical Sensitivity Testing can be completed when local or when on the move. Onsite services also include Body Composition & Metabolic Testing, workshops & seminars and camp support! NEW! Respiratory Training will help you achieve your personal best at altitude or in the gym!. Personalized Probiotics and Supplement Recommendations to match your body type and goals!
(760) 878-5181 View (760) 878-5181
Photo of Solveig Adalsteinsdottir, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Solveig Adalsteinsdottir
Nutritionist/Dietitian
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Solveig is a Registered Dietitian who specializes in women's health, fertility, and PCOS. She fosters a supportive and non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their relationship with food and learn to make mindful choices that nourish both body and soul. Solveig believes in a holistic, non-diet approach to nutrition counseling, empowering clients to be the expert of their own body. She believes her job as a dietitian is to share evidence-based knowledge, provide nutrition education, and help reframe limiting beliefs while respecting client's autonomy regarding their health choices.
Solveig is a Registered Dietitian who specializes in women's health, fertility, and PCOS. She fosters a supportive and non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their relationship with food and learn to make mindful choices that nourish both body and soul. Solveig believes in a holistic, non-diet approach to nutrition counseling, empowering clients to be the expert of their own body. She believes her job as a dietitian is to share evidence-based knowledge, provide nutrition education, and help reframe limiting beliefs while respecting client's autonomy regarding their health choices.
(316) 389-2685 View (316) 389-2685
Photo of Alyson Roux, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
Alyson Roux
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
Online Only
You have spent so much time trying to eat perfectly that food has become exhausting. You want peace with eating and confidence in your body again. I help people who feel burned out from diets or stress find simple, sustainable ways to nourish themselves. Alongside my client work, I teach postgraduate nutrition students how to blend science, compassion, and trauma informed care.
You have spent so much time trying to eat perfectly that food has become exhausting. You want peace with eating and confidence in your body again. I help people who feel burned out from diets or stress find simple, sustainable ways to nourish themselves. Alongside my client work, I teach postgraduate nutrition students how to blend science, compassion, and trauma informed care.
(224) 218-5455 View (224) 218-5455
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Nutritionists and Dietitians
What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)?
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a general term that refers to a collection of symptoms associated with poor gut mobility and function, including abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea. IBS is very common, with some estimates suggesting that as many as 10-15% of adults within the United States have IBS. Although the two conditions sound similar and share many symptoms, such as abdominal pain and diarrhea, IBS differs from irritable bowel diseases (IBDs), such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. In contrast to IBS which is caused by issues in the functioning of the colon, IBDs are inflammatory conditions caused by overactive immune cells within the intestine. IBDs are much less common than IBS and typically more medically severe, occasionally requiring intensive medical treatment and/or surgery. IBS, in contrast, can usually be managed effectively with lifestyle changes and less intense medical intervention.

What are the subcategories of IBS?
Medical professionals generally identify four main types of IBS: IBS-C (constipation-predominant subtype), IBS-D (diarrhea-predominant subtype), IBS-M (mixed bowel subtype), and IBS-U (undefined subtype). Identifying the predominant type of IBS an individual has can be important for determining the type of treatment that is best for them, such as the lifestyle and dietary changes that may be most appropriate, as well as any medications that may be necessary. However, individuals may also experience multiple subtypes over time, as well as experience cycles of flare-ups and symptom relief.

What causes IBS?
The causes of IBS are not well understood, but symptoms are generally attributed to issues with gut muscle contraction and changes in the gut microbiome, both of which can lead to the characteristic symptoms of IBS. These issues can be caused by a variety of lifestyle factors, such as diet and stress. While lifestyle modifications may not completely cure IBS symptoms, identifying symptom-triggering foods, consuming a balanced diet, and reducing stress have all been shown to greatly reduce symptoms. IBS can also be caused by bacterial or parasitic infections within the intestine, in which case the syndrome is referred to as "post-infectious IBS." In contrast to non-infectious IBS, post-infectious IBS is less chronic in nature and symptoms will often resolve once the infection has subsided.

What foods should I avoid if I have IBS?
Specific foods that may trigger symptoms of IBS can vary person-to-person. However, common foods that may exacerbate symptoms include high-fat foods (such as fatty meats), wheat, dairy products, highly acidic foods (such as citrus), beans, cabbage, milk, and carbonated drinks. Over time, individuals with IBS are often able to identify which foods cause their symptoms to worsen and learn to avoid such foods to manage their symptoms.